Grandparents

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Tips for Grandparenting a Child with Hemiplegia

Follow your child’s lead. They may or may not want to talk about the child’s condition and this will possibly change over time.

Ask how your child would like for you to help.

Inform yourself about the condition, but remember a label doesn’t really define the child.

Attend a conference or support group meeting with your child if they’re open to this. Or, volunteer to babysit so they can attend.

Don’t place blame or judge. Parents often already feel guilty and most likely they did nothing that caused the disability.

Spend time with your grandchild.

Babysit so parents can have some couple and alone time.

Realize that parents may be under a great deal of stress and may not cope as you would like for them to cope – be understanding.

Pay attention to laws regarding financial assistance. If parents have set up a trust, consult with a attorney before giving any money directly to your grandchild, since this may prevent them from receiving government assistance.